25 Days Of Grand Christmas

“On the first day of Christmas my true love sent to me, a road full of Christmas trees.”

One thing I love about Christmas? Nope, it’s not the receiving of gifts. Nope, it’s not about the delicious food either. I love Christmas because it’s full of unexpected, fun surprises!

Driving towards a relative’s house in Austin, we were greeted with colors of red, green, gold and everything festive.  Roads full of pine trees were adorned with Christmas decors and ornaments making the day’s spirit truly merry and bright.

I told my wife, “We have to stop. This is one family Christmas picture moment we shouldn’t miss.” She gave me a beautiful smile and said, “You didn’t have to ask. Hurry, go park the car safely first.”

I got no idea Austin had this Christmas road side tradition. The lady next to me said, “It’s been going on for 17 years. It started with one tree, then it just multiplied throughout the years.” All I can say was, “Oh, wow!” It somehow reminded me of the countless locks along the bridges in Paris. Only it’s seasonal and that other than wishing for love, one can wish for any blessing  the heart hopes to have.

One Christmas tree had a huge present in front of it. My son blurted excitedly, “Look a present!” Jokingly I told him, “For me?” He laughed and joked back, “No dad, it’s for me.” Before walking towards the next tree,we both agreed that the Christmas present was for everyone. We left it unscathed or shall I say, unwrapped to bring its holiday surprise and magic to the next traveler destined to find it.

Minions, reindeer and Gingerbread cookie family adorned one tree.

Another tree had Giant Bumble Bees made from empty soda plastic bottles with wings made of white ribbons.

Some trees, too naughty and needs to be skipped if you have a very curious kid next to you. I bet I’ll freeze for a second like Mr. Snowman if my son asked, “Dad, what’s that next to Santa?”

The most moving and meaningful tree was the “Pray and Pledge tree.” It was a tribute to all the little angels who lost their lives because of negligent and careless drivers. It makes us think a thousand times before we “Text while driving, ” “Drive under the influence, “Fighting and mad while driving,” or simply missing to check our kids if they’re safely buckled up, the door secured or no kids were left inside the car when we left it. Unimaginable? Sadly, it’s a painful reality to another parent who will never have the chance to spend another Christmas with their precious love ones.

We stayed by the tree for awhile reading heart-breaking  notes and letters from parents.

Whether it’s finding an unexpected  Christmas surprise during a road trip in December or opening the much-anticipated toy presents, Christmas is about sharing a beautiful, happy, loving unforgettable time with our families.

The holidays can be a stressful time as we have to crack our heads and our wallets on what to buy and give but when we think of all the good things and blessings we received, it is truly the best, happiest time of the year.

May we never forget to share a piece of the holiday cheer and comfort for those who may never know what Christmas means this year because of calamities, tragedies and loss. A grand Christmas is a Christmas from the heart that freely gives generously and becomes a symbol of hope for others who lost it. May this year, we all be a symbol of hope and a bearer of joy for the holidays.

Merry Christmas to all and a Happy, grand New Year!

Now, it’s your turn to sing and fill in the blanks, “On the second day of Christmas my true love sent to me…”

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